Tucked within the historic Margarita Inn, Va Pensiero features the finest cuisine from the various regions of Italy. Our menu features homemade pastas and breads, seafood, veal and lamb dishes, the freshest vegetables and most exquisite desserts. The classical architecture creates an intimate and romantic atmosphere for any special occasion. This brochure outlines general information for private parties - please call for further details; we will be happy to assist you in planning an event incorporating your specific needs and tastes.

What You'll Find On This Page:
A partial list of our private rooms
A sampling of the off-premise venues we utilize
The above info in PDF form (PDF)
Va Pensiero Catering Additional Notes (PDF)
Directions to this hidden jewel (PDF)
Catering agreement, policies, valet parking information (PDF)
The final step: your contract (PDF)

PDF files require the free Adobe Reader.

“WE DO ANYTHING WORTH CELEBRATING!”

Our Goal: To be the first choice of discriminating clientele hosting a party on the North Shore who desire incredible food, outstanding service, and a comfortably elegant atmosphere.

The Private Dining Rooms of Va Pensiero

The Giuseppe Verdi Room
An elegant dining space, the Verdi Room is the perfect venue for intimate as well as grand occasions; available as both a private and semi-private dining room.

Capacity: 90 seated at round tables of 10 guests each
Elevated Enoteca (Wine Library): available for head table or entertainment

The Solera Room
The restaurant’s main dining room with its Romanesque décor makes a great formal or casual setting for luncheons. This room may also be used in conjunction with the Verdi Room for larger events up to 170 people.

Capacity: 70 seated, with the Verdi 160

The Fine Print

• One server for each fifteen guests is provided.
• A 20% service charge will be added to food and beverage totals.
• A non-refundable deposit is required to secure your reservation.
• Additional deposits may be required for certain events.
• Minimum revenue guarantees and room rentals are required for some areas and/or time periods.
• Room blocks are available at the Margarita European Inn for you and your guests.
• Contact the Inn directly at 847-869-2273 for more information.
• Valet parking: $6 per car
• There is an additional charge for afternoon service and/or additional valets.
• There is a $50 Bar Set-up fee (if a bar is set in the room).
• Additional labor charges may apply to certain room set-ups.
• Floral centerpieces and decorations can be arranged for an additional charge.
• Specialty linen is available for an additional charge.
• Coat check: $1 per person.
• Dance floors may be rented; Hardwood Parquet @ $ 250.00

Off-Premise Venues

The Kenilworth Club
This beautiful property, designed by internationally know George W. Maher, is located in the heart of Kenilworth. The space offers a one-story, air-conditioned clubhouse consisting of one large ballroom with two smaller adjacent rooms. There is also a large lawn and garden chairs available for outdoor ceremonies and receptions.

Capacity: 200 seated, 300 for stand-up receptions
Rental Fees: Based on time and space desired

Located at 410 Kenilworth Avenue in Kenilworth Contact: Anne Hill Bird 847-251-1227
www.kenilworthclub.org

The Woman’s Club of Evanston
This elegant two story clubhouse offers two distinct spaces. The first floor with its well appointed parlor has three connecting rooms. The spacious second floor has the ballroom with parquet dance floor and a balcony.

Capacity: 50-250 guests for receptions. Up to 130 for dining on the first floor; 250 for dining on the second floor or 200 with dance floor.
Availability: Daily from 9AM-Midnight.
Rental Fees: Based on time and space desired.

Contact: Carol Short 847.475.3801 Located at 1702 Chicago Avenue in Evanston www.wcofe.org

The Highland Park Community House
This Colonial Revival home was built in 1924 and has a beautiful entry foyer and an elegant vintage ballroom.

Capacity: Up to 200 guests for dinner; 150 with dancing, and 300 for receptions
Availability: Daily
Rental Fees: Based on time and space desired

Located at 1991 Sheridan Road in Highland Park Contact: Debbie Smith 847.432.1515
www.highlandparkcommunityhouse.org

The Woman’s Club of Wilmette
The spacious, dignified clubhouse offers five rooms, including a ballroom, parlor, and large entry and is ideal for luncheons, dinners, receptions, and dances. Two Steinway grand pianos, on both the ballroom stage and in the parlor, are available for your event.

Capacity: 60-200 guests for reception-dinner-dances; 50-400 guests for receptions
Availability: Daily until 4:00PM; and after 5:00PM-midnight
Rental Fees: Based on time and space desired

Contact: Joan Bowe 847-251-0527 Located at 930 Greenleaf Avenue in Wilmette www.womansclubofwilmette.org 

Off-Premise Fine Print

• Menu: Most of our menu items are also available for off-premise catering.
• Tables/Chairs: There may be an additional fee for tables and chairs, depending on the venue.
• Linen, etc: We will handle linen, china, glassware, flatware, and all service equipment. Again, depending on the venue, there may be additional fees.